I recently decided to try to build a small CNC
router. There is a lot of information online for this, but I settled on the
Mantis 9. It is a desktop (footprint is 10"x10") unit; the largest workpiece it
can handle is about 4"x6". It was easy to build and the cost was around $100.
This machine is controlled by an Arduino microprocessor, and connects to a
computer's USB port. Good information can be found at these sites and elsewhere: